What is stormwater pollution?
Stormwater pollution comes from many sources. As rainwater and other runoff flows across the ground, lawns, pavement and rooftops they pick up harmful contaminants like fertilizers, pesticides and dirt. When the rainwater hits our streets, the water mixes with waste oil, automotive fluids and plant debris. Unlike the wastewater we put down our sinks and toilets, stormwater flows to our waterways untreated. This contaminates the water and can harm wildlife. Stormwater pollution is now considered the most significant source of water pollution in our country. Past water pollution control efforts were directed at industrial sources and good progress has been made. Now, non-industrial activities impact water quality more than industrial operations. In compliance with state and federal requirements, the City of Brentwood has developed a Stormwater Management Program committed to protecting our rivers and the Delta by involving and educating our residents in stormwater pollution prevention, r
Runoff from rainstorms is called stormwater. Stormwater becomes polluted by flowing over dirty surfaces, such as parking lots. Stormwater pollution also takes place when someone illegally dumps materials, like oil or paint, directly into the storm drain. Polluted stormwater flows without treatment directly to creeks and rivers, where it can be harmful to aquatic life.
As rainwater and other discharges flow across the ground they pick up harmful contaminants like fertilizers, pesticides and dirt. When the rainwater hits our streets, the water mixes with waste oil, automotive fluids and plant debris. Unlike the wastewater we put down our sinks and toilets, stormwater flows to our waterways untreated.
Runoff from rainstorms is called stormwater. Stormwater becomes polluted by flowing over dirty surfaces, such as parking lots. Stormwater pollution also takes place when someone dumps materials, like oil or paint, directly into the storm drain. Polluted stormwater flows without treatment directly to creeks and rivers, where it can be harmful to aquatic life.
Related Questions
- Do I Have Flexibility in Preparing the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and Selecting Best Management Practices (BMPs) For My Site?
- What can I do to make a difference at home and reduce the amount of stormwater pollution?
- Are local governments doing enough to combat pollution from stormwater runoff?
